Four Standout Players Named Paloma Valley Athletes of Week

From left: Holly Oyhenart, Parker Fokken, Joseph Gildner. Not pictured: Anthony Smith.

Four Paloma Valley High School students were recognized this week for their accomplishments as Menifee 24/7 Athletes of the Week.

Parker Fokken is 3-0 with a 1.05 ERA as a pitcher for the Wildcats baseball team, which got off to a fast start by winning its first two Sunbelt League games after a solid preseason. Fokken, a junior right-hander, pitched a shutout against Los Altos in a nonleague game and has been consistent at the plate as well.

"I think the coolest thing about our team is we're always up and working hard, trying to get better," said Fokken, who is in his first year on the varsity team. "We're all very humble and just want to get better."

Joseph Gildner is a senior member of the boys tennis team and has made key contributions as a doubles player.

"Joseph has really stepped up his skills and leadership, on and off the court," said his coach, Alison King. "He offers help to the younger athletes as needed. As a doubles partner, he communicates with his partner during the match to help ensure the success of the team."

"I like doubles because I have a partner who can watch my back in case I'm having a bad day," Gildner said. "You connect with your partner and become friends with them. And I like helping out the younger players. I'm a senior and I won't be here next year, so this is my way of giving back to the school."

Senior softball player Holly Oyhenart has made a big impact for the Wildcats from her outfield position. She is hitting. 579 with 10 RBIs for Paloma Valley, which is 8-5 overall and 2-0 in league play.

Oyhenart has received a scholarship to Christian Brothers University in Tennessee, where she plans to major in sports management.

Track and field standout Anthony Smith recently anchored the 4x100 relay team to a school record of 43.25 seconds. He also has excelled in the 100 and 200 this season.

"Anthony has been working very hard this year to finish his high school career with a bang," said his coach, Bert Esposito. "He has been improving his grades and his performances on the track have been exceptional. I am very proud of his work ethic and leadership."